Going to a movie theater to see a show on the big screen is an appealing prospect to most of us most of the time, but there's something to be said for catching a flick in the comfort of your own home.

And if you don't have to shell out a wad of cash to take advantage of the rented movie fare, all the better.

Hulu.com offers a pretty sizable selection of TV shows, movies and clips to watch anytime for free.

More than 50 broadcast networks, cable networks, movie studios and online content providers contribute to the site's library to offer such movies as "Ice Age" and "The Incredible Hulk" and such TV shows as "Babylon 5" and "The Dick Van Dyke Show." The site also offers nightly highlights, top plays and full-length games from the NBA and the NHL.

"With full-length episodes of current and archived television shows, feature films, sports and news, we believe the Hulu service is a step forward in giving consumers entertainment on their terms," Jason Kilar, chief executive officer of Hulu, said in a prepared statement.

Hulu.com streams videos in high-quality and offers options that include full-screen view, a pop-out window, a "lower lights" feature and more. It also allows users to clip, share and embed videos on other Web sites. A search feature helps users find legal video online even if it is not directly available on Hulu.com.

"Hulu helps fans find great content wherever they are online," Peter Chernin, president and chief operating officer of News Corporation, said in a prepared statement. "With tools that make sharing easy, Hulu encourages viral distribution. At the same time, Hulu's distribution partners are some of the most visited on the Web, engaging consumers where they are already spending their time. This is a powerful combination."

On Hulu.com, advertisers can connect their brands with online content, interact with consumers and extend their reach through Hulu's distribution network.

Catching a movie is a favorite pastime for a lot of us, and catching a movie -- or two or three -- for free is just icing on the cake.